From Warehouse to Powerhouse
A historic renovation supports interdisciplinary discovery and anchors a growing innovation district in downtown Durham.
Carmichael Building
Durham, NC
Duke University is nationally recognized for advancing interdisciplinary research that tackles complex global challenges. Its university-wide institutes foster collaboration across disciplines to drive education, innovation, and public engagement.
To support this mission and expand its research presence beyond campus, Duke identified the opportunity to transform the abandoned Carmichael Building—a former tobacco warehouse in downtown Durham—into a state-of-the-art medical research facility. The project would also play a key role in Duke’s broader effort to establish a thriving urban research district
The design repurposed 115,000 SF across two floors to accommodate a wide range of research needs. Program spaces include public reception areas, open and private offices, flexible research laboratories, specialized labs, processing areas, and cell storage. The renovation prominently houses the Steadman Center while consolidating other research programs scattered across campus and the city
By preserving the building’s historic character and integrating modern systems and infrastructure, the design supports scientific advancement and a sense of place. The open, adaptable environment encourages collaboration while reinforcing Duke’s long-term vision for a connected, innovation-driven district.
Today, the Carmichael Building stands as a model of adaptive reuse—bridging Duke’s legacy with its future and transforming a once-vacant structure into a vibrant hub for medical research and discovery.
